PENNRIDGE TEACHER RECOGNIZED FOR WORK WITH LIFE SKILLS STUDENTS

Posted: January 13, 2012By Theresa Hegel Staff writerPennridge High School life skills teacher Maria Gannon received a teacher of the year award Thursday from Pediatric Therapeutic Services, a Montgomery County company.Gannon and her classroom are also being filmed by a video crew from Advance Publications, which is making a documentary about how the teacher has helped students with a wide range of physical and learning needs prepare for life after high school.Gannon's students run several small businesses at the high school, including a coffee shop and plant stand.They also design and sell greeting cards. With the help of a special paper-cutting machine, every student can participate, no matter their physical limitations."Maria has an uncanny knack for coming up with programs that fit the needs of her students," said Bob Phillips, Pennridge's director of pupil services. "She is always looking for ways to maximize the potential of each child. We're proud of the work she does."Learning Life Skills on ADVANCE for Occupational Therapy Practitioners.See more information about the Special Education Teacher of the Year Award.Pediatric Therapeutic Services is located at 525 Fayette St., Conshohocken. For more information, call 610-941-7792.